What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card
To change your name on your Social Security card, you submit Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, along with proof of your new legal name and proof of identity. The Social Security Administration does not change your name in their records automatically—you must request it yourself. The process takes about two weeks once the office receives your documents, though it can take longer if the office is busy or if your documents need verification.
You do not need to change your Social Security card before changing your name legally. Many people change their name through a court order first, then update their Social Security record afterward. However, updating Social Security early prevents problems later when you explore for a job, open a bank account, or renew your driver's license—employers and banks check that your name matches across documents.
Key Takeaways
- You must fill out Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office; you cannot mail it or submit it online.
- Bring an original or certified copy of your court order, divorce decree, or other legal document showing your new name.
- Bring a photo ID that matches your current name, such as a driver's license or passport.
- The office will take your old card and mail you a new one within two weeks in most cases.
- You will need your Social Security number, which appears on your current card.
Documents you need to bring to the Social Security office
Bring an original or certified copy of the legal document that shows your name change. This is usually a court order from a name-change case, a divorce decree, or an adoption order. The document must show your old name and your new name clearly. If you obtained your name change through a court, the clerk's office can provide certified copies for a small fee—usually between $5 and $25 depending on your state.
You also need a photo ID that shows your current name. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If your ID still shows your old name, bring it anyway—the Social Security office will accept it as proof of identity. You do not need a second form of ID unless the office asks for one.
Bring your current Social Security card if you still have it. If you have lost it, tell the office staff when you arrive. You will still be able to change your name; the office will straightforward note that you do not have the card to surrender.
How to find your local Social Security office and make an appointment
Go to ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you. Enter your city and state or your ZIP code. The website shows office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have different hours.
Call the office to ask whether you need an appointment or whether you can walk in. Many offices now require appointments, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. If an appointment is required, the staff can schedule you over the phone or direct you to an online scheduling system. If walk-ins are accepted, arrive early—offices often reach capacity by mid-morning.
If you cannot visit an office in person, call the Social Security Administration's main number at 1-800-772-1213. The staff can tell you whether your local office offers any remote options, though most name changes still require an in-person visit.
What happens when you arrive at the office
Give your documents to the staff member at the front desk or at the window. They will review your court order or legal document and your photo ID. If everything is in order, they will ask you to sign Form SS-5 in front of them. You cannot sign the form before you arrive—it must be signed in the office.
The staff member will take your old Social Security card and give you a receipt. Keep this receipt. It shows that you submitted your process and gives you a reference number. Your new card will arrive in the mail within two weeks in most cases. If you need the card sooner, ask the office whether they can issue a replacement card on the spot—some offices can do this, though it is not standard.
If your documents are incomplete or unclear, the office will tell you what is missing. You may need to return with additional paperwork. Do not leave without understanding what the office needs from you.
Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order
If you changed your name through marriage, bring your marriage certificate. If you changed your name through divorce, bring your divorce decree. Both documents must be originals or certified copies. A photocopy is not enough.
If you changed your name through a legal name-change court case (not marriage or divorce), bring the court order. This is the document the judge signed that officially changed your name. The clerk's office of the court that handled your case can provide a certified copy if you no longer have the original.
If you changed your name through adoption, bring the adoption order or adoption decree. This is the legal document that finalized your adoption and shows your new name.
What to do if you have lost your Social Security card
If you are changing your name and your card is lost, you still follow the same process. Bring your legal name-change document and your photo ID. Tell the office staff that your card is lost. They will note this in your file and issue a new card with your new name. You do not need to report the lost card separately to Social Security.
If you want to report the lost card for your own records, you can mention it to the staff, but it is not required to change your name. The old card is no longer valid once you receive your new card with your new name.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit your process
The Social Security Administration typically mails your new card within two weeks of your visit. You will receive it at the address you provided at the office. If you do not receive it after three weeks, call your local office and give them the reference number from your receipt.
Once you have your new card, update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and any other organization that has your Social Security number on file. You do not have to do this when ready, but delays can cause problems when you explore for loans, jobs, or benefits later.
If you need to prove your name change before your new card arrives, the receipt from the Social Security office can serve as temporary proof in some situations. Ask your employer or bank whether they will accept it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my Social Security card by mail?
No. You must visit a Social Security office in person and sign Form SS-5 in front of staff. You cannot mail the form or submit it online. However, if you are unable to visit an office, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about exceptions or alternative options in your area.
Do I need to change my name legally before I change my Social Security card?
Yes. You must have a legal document showing your name change—a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption order. Social Security will not change your name without proof that the change is legal.
How much does it cost to change your name on your Social Security card?
There is no fee charged by Social Security to change your name on your card. However, you may need to pay your court clerk a small fee (usually $5 to $25) to obtain a certified copy of your court order or legal document if you do not have one.
What if my name change document is from another country?
Bring the original document or a certified copy, along with an English translation if the document is not in English. The translation must be certified by a professional translator. The Social Security office will review it to determine whether it is acceptable.
Can someone else change my name on my Social Security card for me?
No. You must visit the office in person. A parent, guardian, or attorney cannot submit the process on your behalf. If you are unable to visit due to a disability or medical condition, call your local office to ask about possible exceptions.